Gary, IN – The Gary SouthShore RailCats have re-signed Michael Woodworth, Sam Abbott, LG Castillo, Sherman Graves, Thomas Greely, and Lester Madden.
Woodworth, 25, re-signs with Gary SouthShore for a third season. The second baseman led the RailCats in games played (99), at-bats (401), runs (75), hits (118), and triples (8). The eights triples also led the entire American Association. The former Oakland Athletics prospect stole 23 bases.
“Michael was one of our most consistent players last season,” said General Manager Anthony Giammanco. “He put together an impressive season both offensively and defensively and we look forward to watching him play in 2023.”
Abbott, 23, returns to Gary SouthShore for a second season. The former White Sox prospect hit .219 with 46 RBI in 68 games. He also set the single-season franchise record with 20 home runs.
“Watching Sam break the franchise record for home runs last season was thrilling. He has shown he has a lot of power from the left side of the plate. RailCats fans will look forward to chasing down more home run baseballs this summer.”
Castillo, 23, returns to the RailCats for a second season after being acquired midway through the 2022 season. The outfielder hit .317 and knocked in 37 batters over 47 games. His seven home runs ranked fourth on the team.
Graves 28, joins the RailCats for a second season after signing as a free agent in July 2022. In 16 games he hit .255 with two home runs and 14 RBI.
Greely, 24, returns to Gary SouthShore after making his professional debut in 2022. The catcher had 175 put outs in 24 games. At the plate he hit .237 with 18 hits.
Madden, 24, re-signs with the RailCats after joining the team in August 2022. The outfielder appeared in 14 games. Prior to joining the RailCats, he spent three seasons in the Oakland Athletics organization.
“LG, Sherman, Thomas, and Lester were all great mid-season acquisitions. We are excited to see them return for 2023 and build off their 2022 seasons.”
The RailCats 2023 season begins at the Steel Yard on Thursday, May 11 vs Winnipeg Goldeyes. Season tickets packages and group outings for the 2023 season can be reserved by calling 219-882-2255 or emailing [email protected].